Sun Sep 21 03:50:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Dodgers’ Kopech Returns to Injured List Amid Continued Struggles**

**LOS ANGELES, CA -** The Los Angeles Dodgers’ bullpen woes continue as right-handed reliever Michael Kopech has been placed back on the injured list with right knee inflammation. The announcement comes just a day after Kopech struggled in a relief appearance, walking two of the three batters he faced.

“This is a tough one, because obviously, with what we’ve seen, it hasn’t been consistent,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “He’s going through some things physically and certainly is pitchable, and those are his words. But it’s just not the Kopech, the standard that he is as a pitcher.”

This marks Kopech’s second stint on the injured list this season. He previously spent time on the 60-day IL due to a right shoulder impingement during Spring Training, only returning in June. Since his return on September 1st, Kopech has struggled, posting a 6.75 ERA with nine walks in six appearances.

“I really haven’t been able to have a consistent workload this year with the IL stints that I have had,” Kopech said. “Getting in a rhythm isn’t exactly the easiest thing to do right now. There’s probably various reasons for that.”

Kopech’s injury further complicates the Dodgers’ bullpen situation, as several other right-handed relievers, including Kirby Yates and Blake Treinen, have also experienced inconsistency this season.

With the Dodgers in the midst of a division title push and preparing for the postseason, Kopech expressed his frustration. “We’re in the middle of trying to lock down this division title and put ourselves in a good spot going into the postseason,” Kopech said. “It’s obviously something I want to be a part of. It’s a special group. I care for these guys. I want to win games with them, and when I realize I’m making it harder on us to win games, it’s not a fun thing to accept. So yeah, it’s really frustrating.”

The Dodgers have recalled reliever Will Klein as the corresponding move. The team is also exploring other options to bolster the bullpen, with Brock Stewart and Roki Sasaki potentially returning soon from rehab assignments. Ben Casparius and Kyle Hurt are also being considered for a call-up.

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